Rongai MP race takes legal turn as aspirant demands apology over alleged defamation

Rongai constituency MP aspirant Mercy Chebet alongside her Lawyer Danstan Omari and her supporters, at press briefing with the media at Milimani law courts, Nairobi on June 4, 2026/LEAH MUKANGAI

The battle for the Rongai parliamentary seat in Nakuru County has escalated into a legal dispute after an aspiring candidate accused a political rival of making statements she says damaged her reputation.

Parliamentary aspirant Mercy Chebet Chelel, through lawyer Danstan Omari, has issued a demand letter to a fellow aspirant seeking a public apology, retraction of the alleged remarks and Sh50 million in damages.

According to the letter, the disputed remarks were allegedly made during a fundraising event in Menengai West Ward on May 24.

Chelel's legal team claims the comments portrayed her negatively and questioned her suitability to seek elective office.

In the demand notice, the lawyers argue that the remarks were discriminatory and injurious to their client's reputation as a political leader and parliamentary hopeful.

The letter states that the comments were allegedly made in the Kalenjin language and were later interpreted by Chelel and her supporters as casting doubt on her leadership abilities and capacity to compete politically.

The dispute also extends to an incident that allegedly occurred on May 26 during a funeral attended by Chelel within the constituency.

She claims that a group of individuals disrupted proceedings while she was addressing mourners. Her lawyers allege that the actions amounted to harassment and were intended to interfere with her public engagements.

The legal team further argues that the alleged conduct undermined constitutional principles relating to equality, dignity and non-discrimination, particularly regarding women's participation in leadership and political affairs.

Chelel maintains that the remarks and actions complained of have harmed her reputation and political standing.

As part of her demands, she wants the fellow aspirant to publicly acknowledge the statements, issue an unconditional apology and formally retract the remarks within seven days of receiving the notice.

The lawyers are also seeking Sh50 million in compensation, saying the amount would address the alleged damage to Chelel's reputation, leadership credentials and political prospects.

The demand letter warns that legal proceedings could be initiated if the demands are not met within the stipulated period.

"Take further notice that should you fail to abide by the demands of our client within the stipulated timelines, we shall move to institute legal proceedings without further reference to you," the letter states.